I feel uncomfortable when I go out in public with my parents. I feel like a loser who has nothing better to do. I’m always on the lookout for someone I know, so I can avoid them.

Dear Daughter in Disguise,

Lots of girls feel similarly self-conscious about being out with their parents but, fact is, all of your classmates live with caring adults, too, and they all sometimes venture out together to run errands or go out to dinner.

You’re not the only girl going public with a parental figure, so stop worrying. Instead of looking to avoid running into friends, focus on enjoying the time you have with your folks.